Balancing Act: The Life of a Psychiatric Nurse and Podcasting Enthusiast - An Interview with Heidi Luv

I had the opportunity to speak with Heidi Luv, who is a former Mormon and a registered nurse, about her decision to leave the church and her goals in the healthcare industry and her podcast. I'm sure you'll find our conversation both enlightening and engaging.

AA: I would love to learn more about you! Please share your background with me and tell me where you're from. I'm interested in hearing about your upbringing, cultural heritage, and significant life experiences that have shaped who you are today.

HL: I was raised mostly in Idaho until I was 12. I had been born in Utah but moved shortly after. I was brought up in a "Jack Mormon" home. This is an inactive family that does not adhere to the religion. It was a brutal and violent upbringing for the most part. My stepdad was a violent man who was extremely hard to please. He was also a racist and a substance abuser. I tried all I could to make him "happy" and ease my mother's burdens. This was the start of a long-term nursing career; I just didn't know it.

AA: Share your childhood experiences in the Mormon Church and describe the significant events and observations from your formative years.

HL: During my youth the church was a haven. I knew no other religion or churches in any other form. I knew I had a love of God, but I also felt lost, forgotten and desperate a lot. I felt the church was where the "normal people" were. I wanted to be "normal" too. I made it a point to be like those who seemed to have it all together. Look like them, act like them, be them.

AA: Could you provide a comprehensive summary of the beliefs and teachings of the Mormon Church, from childhood to adulthood?

HL: When you are so young the church is all about 4 things.

1. Joseph Smith 2. Follow the prophets 3. Marry in the temple and 4.Be Perfect. If you weren't perfect, work harder to be more perfect! Perfection is everything.

AA: What secrets would you like to reveal about the church you attend?

HL: Mormonism is Goetic Magick mixed with the idolatry of Joseph Smith and channeled necromancy. They perform Freemason rituals and more in the secret "sacred" ceremonies. They do not teach Jesus or the true principles of actual Jesus.

AA: What parts of Mormonism or the church did you find to be the most difficult or troubling?

HL: The constant lies on top of lies. No real answers until you are knee deep into freemason occult rituals

AA: Has there been any influence of occultism and Freemasonry in the early days of Mormonism?

HL: They are both there and continue to be there. They lie and call it folk magic. It is not, it is Goetic Magick mixed with Freemason rituals. They actually endorse Freemasonry now. One quote from Heber C Kimball is "We have the true masonry. Masonry today is received from the apostasy which took place in the days of Solomon and now David. They have now and then a thing or two that is correct, but we have the real thing.

AA: I'm interested in understanding the historical and social connections between the Mafia, Las Vegas, Chicago, and the Mormons. Can you provide a detailed explanation?

HL: Howard Hughes the actor is such a pivotal person in this. The money from his empire was exploited via Summa Corporation. Robert Mahieu being the only non-Mormon in the "Mormon Mob". He was the key connection to the 3 letter agencies as well as the mob early on. Later the Corporatizing of gambling kicked out the regular mob with Mormon banker E Parry Thomas and Frank Gay at the helm. These empires continue on today with the dynasty of the Wynn family, Hunstman, Marriotts and more. The search of these names will lead to government connections, Presidents and so much more.

AA: Is it possible for leaders of cults to genuinely believe in what they are teaching, or are they more likely to intentionally mislead their followers? As individuals rise through the ranks, how do they shift from sincere believers in the organization to acknowledging its many falsehoods but feeling compelled to perpetuate the lies to maintain their position?

HL: I do believe Joseph Smith believed and saw something. Channeling afforded him this through his angel Moroni. I would say after Joseph power and control is at play, and today as well. The LDS church is now a corporation. They run so much and once you are in so far it encompases everything. Families are made and solidified with power, control and religion.

AA: What is your medical background? What inspired you to pursue a nursing career, and what type of nursing did you specialize in? I'm sure you have countless compelling stories from your time as a nurse. Please share some of the most unforgettable and impactful experiences that have shaped your nursing career.

HL: I am a Registered Nurse with a degree in Nursing and in Human Biology. I have been a nurse now for 25 years. I have taken care of everyone for as long as I can remember.It seemed very natural to continue this calling. I have done long term care, pediatric home care/trachs, L&D, stepdown ICU, OR, NICU, detox and mental health care. Being a nurse is a gift. I have been there in the most horrific moments and the most beautiful. It is watching babies come in and parents sadly go out. It is an honor and a privilege to provide help to those who need it. My brother's accidental overdose led me to mental health nursing. I strive to serve those like him. These people are not a waste, garbage or useless. These are brothers, sisters, parents and children.

AA: In your experience, what are some of the most common mental health disorders you've come across?

HL: Depression and anxiety are rampant since 2020. This is why we must all learn to speak out, stop the insanity of perfection. It isn't real and provides people with a pit of misery.

AA: Could you tell me about your typical workday?

HL: I come in at 6 pm and clean everything because it's just who I am... I do medications from 7/10pm. I help wherever I am needed when not doing meds from trash to making beds etc. Once patients are asleep it changes to quality control and paperwork. We also visualize the breaths of each pt for 3 breaths even in sleep, showers, bathrooms etc to ensure their safety. Night shift are the fixers.

AA: Tell me about when you had to provide crisis intervention for a distressed patient.

HL: Crisis is hard to fix once there. I can give generalizations only due to privacy laws. I have been hurt physically, emotionally etc. at work. Sometimes these people are in other realms and unreachable for a time. Hopefully we can usually bring them back.

AA: What do you find to be the most challenging and rewarding aspect of psychiatric nursing?

HL: The rules are the worst. No hugging, no touching, no emotions, no excess kindness, no praying, no God etc... It's all so clinical now. Sterile and cold. That is not my favorite.

AA: What are the key attributes of a successful psychiatric nurse?

HL: Be kind, smile and mean it. Inform people, lessen paranoia by opening meds in front of them and explaining everything. Be honest and treat everyone with the same respect.

AA: I know you have a podcast called "Unfiltered Rise Podcast." Could you please tell us about that show in detail? When did it get started? What have been your favorite episodes that you have recorded or guests that you have had on? How has your podcast journey been since you started? Given your passion for researching various subjects, I would appreciate it if you could delve deeper into a topic, such as Harry Potter and Magical Mormones or a topic of your choosing. 

HL: Yes, I love being in the podcast world! Starting the Unfiltered Rise Podcast is a midlife journey I don’t know was coming! It has now been over a year and I am loving it even more!

My show is specifically about my journey out of Mormonism, Occult ties, conspiracies and deep rabbit holes as well as connecting dots!  My favorite episode of mine as far as research has to be the Mormon Mafia! I will be releasing a new episode on this soon, but it has guest appeared multiple times. I am actually delving further into this topic as it is fascinating!  I mean Howard Hughes, old Hollywood, Mormons gone rogue and more! 

It’s a treasure trove of forgotten history!

https://youtu.be/nxwGlxsjTPE?si=oH6krywfqqaIOsU0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWPASW90Wic

AA: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

HL: The Family Stone, it's an old Christmas show. I love it because I identify with the large family. They are all a little messed up and I also identify there haha! We like to say which child is which in our family to compare.

AA: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

HL: I only watch "real shows". I like things like Dateline or biographies, or study shows. I do have one shameful secret! I like the old Jersey Shore. It's great for tuning out sometimes. I rarely watch much TV.

AA: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

HL: Almost all the books I read except the bible are for studying. Like being held hostage lol. The bible is a joy to me and I love the way it is truly the living word. It is always amazing to me how much it changes and the messages it has delivered over the years. For this I am so grateful. I do have to also say the Occult books I have read have been so helpful to me also. To show me light from dark for there is no true knowledge without knowing both

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

HL: I am so random on this. I love certain subjects, and I am loyal only to that. If I'm interested, I am your fan for the day lol! I do love the work of William Ramsey. He is a gentleman and a scholar. I look up to him and his investigative work. He is top notch in my book.

AA: What bands or artists do you love listening to? I would also love to know about your favorite concert experience!

HL: I am a wild card here. On my playlists you will find gangster rap, 70's favorites, Dirty Heads and good ole Nirvana. I'm all over the board and am a song girl not an album collector.

Favorite concerts are Dirty Heads which we always try to go to. It started with my daughter needing a chaperone. I think I like them more than her now. Another one was Ozzy. We went with all our kids and it poured rain. We were all in our raincoats and watching this old man belt it out as good as ever. Zach Wilde played the guitar with his tongue.... It was insane!

AA: What hobbies do you enjoy doing?

HL: I love to color intricate pics, decorate, flower arrangements, wedding coordination, crochet, diamond art and of course my favorite jumping down new rabbit holes of study!

AA: What made you decide to become a mother? Please share your experience of motherhood. How would you define motherhood in your own words? What have been the most rewarding aspects of being a mother for you? What values and lessons do you want to impart to your children as they grow up?

HL: Motherhood is all I have ever known. I don't think I have ever not been a mother that I can remember. I don't regret it either. It molded me into the person I am today. I'm nothing and everything. I'm hated and loved. I'm the best and the worst. It's hysteria and paradise. Being a mother is the hardest job I have ever done. It's different for each one. There is pain, pride, heartache, anger, happiness, pride, love, tears, triumphs and so much more. It is the highest honor I have ever been given. Each and every single child all my birth, step and adopted kids. All of you have been so amazing! And now we have grandchildren too! Its sheer delight.

AA: Tell me about the three people that have impacted your life positively or negatively.

HL: 1st My Grandpa. He was my right-hand man. He was so imperfectly perfect. He taught me how to live "real life." He was not always the best to others, but he was the best to me. He died early and I quit my job to care for him each moment. I wouldn't trade it for anything. 

2nd My baby brother, he taught me to never take anything for granted. Say I love you every single time. Live all the moments to the max. Laugh the hardest, play the game, spend the money. Take all the risks and not give a shiz. Take all the pictures and treasure them all.

3rd My husband has shown me I am worthy and worth it. That I am both beautiful and strong. That my imperfections are beautiful too.That I can do anything and he will back me up. We have literally been through hell and back. We have been ostracized and hated. We have been through not one fire but many. However, the way he looks at me even still is magical. 

AA: What would you tell yourself if you could turn back the time and talk to your 18-year-old self?

HL: Leave earlier... I was already married by then. So I would say wait until your 2 girls are born and run like the wind.

AA: What would you say if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

HL: Love one another. Learn to be better with your fellow man. Be real, be honest no more fallacies. Learn to truly love people, imperfections and all. That is true love.

AA: Heidi, I appreciate you sharing a lot about yourself! I wish you the best of luck in all your future pursuits!

Heidi Luv - Nurse and Podcaster

To access all information about Heidi Luv, please visit the link provided below:

https://linktr.ee/unfilteredrisepod?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaacet8m3_LOMK7aq77JP4TElneVKISgwoqADxTOdIdqPb-xrgs1ykWS2g4_aem_ku71TvISexFMZAlJiBTMGA

*** All photos & videos by Heidi Luv, unless otherwise noted **

Empowering Others: A Conversation with Podcaster and Retired Nurse, Janet Fox

I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my dear friend Janet, during which we discussed her personal life and her background in nursing. I hope you all find this conversation enjoyable to read.

AA: I would love to learn more about you! Please share your background with me and tell me where you're from. I'm interested in hearing about your upbringing, cultural heritage, and significant life experiences that have shaped who you are today.

JF: I can honestly say that I am finally the person I was meant to be. Through all the trials and tribulations of life, I have grown into my own, so to speak. I am a wife, a mother, a best friend, a podcaster, and a loving soul.

JF: I am a small town girl born and raised in Indiana. Like so many children in a small town, I grew up with sports as a way to keep me out of trouble. With not many options for entertainment, my parents put me in tennis, volleyball, basketball, and track to fill my time.

JF: I was raised in a home with two older siblings, a brother and sister. Big brother left for the military right after high school. My sister was two years older than me, and the obvious favorite of the family. Growing up was challenging for my emotional wellbeing. My parents constantly compared me to my sister and often made remarks like “why can’t you just be more like your sister?” This theme echoed all throughout childhood and adolescence. “Why can’t you be as good as your sister?” “Your sister is so smart… so good at tennis…she makes perfect grades… why can’t you be more like her?” To say they showed favoritism would be a drastic understatement. It wasn’t even about just words for me, it also involved attention and affection. Every time that there was an issue or sibling tiff between the two of us, I got dealt the punishment while she got hugs and kisses. These recurring events shaped me, and made me feel unloved and never good enough.

JF: My parents were very lacking in the emotional support department for each other as well. My dad always seemed to use my mom as a personal assistant instead of a wife. Mom replied in turn with dirty words under her breath, or a middle finger in the air behind his back. There was no outward pouring of loving kindness toward each other, or to me. The air was always full of the stench of resentment and disgust. This permeated my emotions and further damaged my psyche.

JF: As a way to keep myself busy, I would often ride my bike to the local park, sometimes swimming there with friends. One fateful day, (I was 11 years old) I rode to the park to meet my friends. We swam and had a nice day laughing and talking. One by one they began to leave to return home. I went to get my bike to make the journey home, and my lock got stuck. I wriggled it around until finally I was able to get it free. Starting my ride through the park, I saw an old blue pickup truck approaching on the road. I moved over closer to the grass to make sure it had plenty of room to get by. In an instant, the truck stopped and a man got out, grabbed me off my bike, and shoved me into the truck. He had a death grip on me, and threatened to kill me. He drove behind a shelter, and sexually assaulted me. I screamed for dear life, but no one came. I was bloodied, bruised and crying. He pushed me out of the truck and onto the ground, telling me to stay there until he had gone. Alone and scared, I made the trek back to my bike. I rode home crying. No one stopped me. No one seemed to notice the blood running down my legs. As I arrived home, I ran to my room. My mother came to see what I was wailing about. I told her what had happened in a scared and hushed tone. She glared at me, and said “Well, that’s that. Go take a bath, and do not speak of this again.” No are you okay? No did he hurt you? Nothing…. Just coldness and lack of concern. Being ordered to never speak of it meant only one thing, we don’t want to embarrass the family. Again, this shaped by wellbeing and emotional state for years to come.

JF: Growing up, I had a string of unhealthy relationships. Throughout high school, I dated a guy named Bobby. We were together for 4 years, when he asked me to marry him. The day I said yes, he was killed in a drunk driving accident. He and a friend had been out celebrating, although I was not aware until after his passing, they were partying with a group of girls. Drugs and alcohol were involved. The relationship that followed (Erik) ended with me being physically assaulted and sustaining multiple broken bones. I dated a guy named Sonny for a while. He proposed, and we set a date. He no-showed to the wedding, and then I found out later that he was a career criminal and was in prison. Every relationship that followed was with an abuser, cheater, addict, or just plain crazy person. The last toxic relationship was to my now ex-husband Chris. He was an alcoholic, drug addict, cheater, and abuser. All these relationships further shaped my character, and what I thought was “normal” in love.

JF: Uncertain on the age old question on “what do you want to be when you grow up”, I went to college for business. I got my degree and muddled my way through years of management, accounting, marketing, and all the business things of life. I knew that I had made a drastic mistake, and I grew to loathe going to work. It just was not a good fit for me. I decided to start working at the local hospital instead, in whatever capacity I could get. Switchboard became my first job. From there, I moved into the billing department, collections, worker’s compensation, chart audit, and insurance appeals. The coolest job was when I was offered the chance to be an autopsy assistant. (I am NOT a serial killer! LOL) I loved seeing the inner workings of the human body, and what it was capable of. At the age of 24, and while trying to figure out what to do next, my life dramatically changed, and my path became clear.

AA: Could you tell me about your medical background? What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing, and what type of nursing did you specialize in? I'm sure you have countless compelling stories from your time as a nurse. Please share some of the most memorable experiences and eye-opening, impactful moments you encountered during your nursing career.

JF: My sister was suffering from debilitating migraines. Countless doctors and treatments later, nothing was helping. She finally ended up at a renowned “headache clinic” for treatments. They gave her a prescription injection to take at home and sent her on her way. My mother’s birthday was in two days, so we agreed to go shopping and figure out a plan for the celebration. After a nice day together, I dropped her back off at home. In the middle of the night, I got a horrific call to come to the Emergency Room because my sister was dead. I was devastated and in shock. The medication she has been given for her migraine has in fact exploded her heart. My parents were such a mess that they could not make funeral arrangements. My brother and I made the difficult choices and set the funeral for the following week. In his grief response, my father changed the arrangements to fall on my mother’s birthday, an excruciatingly painful reminder every year on repeat.

JF: I knew at that moment that I wanted to be a nurse. My desire to help others physically, mentally, and emotionally was so clear to me. From that moment on, I thrived at my job working for a teaching hospital. I loved the lives I touched, and the assistance I was able to give to others. I quickly rose through the ranks and became a nursing supervisor, although I was still dedicated to being hands on with my patients. I also got involved with being a site preceptor (boots on the ground instructor) for medical students of all kinds. My job also included disaster planning, Value Analysis Team, insurance approvals/denials, and running the Vaccines for Children Program. The area I worked in was a diverse mixture of Family Practice, OB_GYN, Pediatrics, Surgical, Orthopedic, Dermatology, just to name a few. There was never a dull moment.

JF: Certain things really stuck out to me during this time. Drug representatives would come by to peddle the “latest and greatest” medications (especially for diabetes), and they would bring tons of candy and sugar filled drinks. Odd huh? One time, we had a depression medication that was new to the market that was really being pushed hard. The doctor had prescribed this medication to a lady in her late 60’s. She called me after just three days in hysterics and said she was in a trance-like state, and when waking from it, she was standing over her husband with a butcher knife ready to stab him. I advised her to stop the medication immediately and come in for an appointment. What did we do? We doubled the dosage! I recall a time I got written up for refusing to give a patient a new migraine injection because it was contraindicated for people with heart problems. The powers that be did not like that at all that I defied a doctor’s order. I refused to sign it and stated that I was there under oath as an advocate for my patients, not for big Pharma. There are literally thousands of stories I could tell.

AA: Do you remember the first thing they made you do on the job in the first few months?

JF: The very first thing I had to do as a nurse in the teaching facility was an initiation I guess of sorts. The doctor asked everyone things they liked and what kind of things turned them off or grossed them out. I of course answered innocently enough that I cannot handle poop stuff. Fast forward a week or so, and we had a patient who came in with a Tupperware container of stool that I was ordered to scoop out and fill stool sample vials with. It was green liquid that looked like pond scum and smelled like dead animals. GROSS! The doctor was watching me, and chuckling under his breath the whole time.

AA: Do you have a mentor who guided you through the first year of your nursing journey?

JF: I never had a nurse mentor, but the doctor I worked directly for was an excellent teacher. He would always call me in to see unusual things like certain rashes, bumps, nodules, etc. He was very good at asking me what I thought the diagnosis on someone was. I learned so much from him, and I think that ran both ways. I became excellent at reading x-rays and CT scans, test results, and the like. This made his job easier, because I took on a large portion of his workload.

AA: Tell me about your experience supervising or mentoring other nurses. How did this go for you?

JF: I loved supervising and mentoring staff and other medical professionals. We had medical students, medical assistants, nurses, and phlebotomists rotate through our office. Handling staff was easy for me, because my management style was always keeping your staff happy and part of the process. It was important to me to keep open communication and ask their opinions on daily operations and take suggestions for improvement from their perspective. It was a close nit family type environment.

AA: What are some gross things you had to see as a nurse, and how did willpower control your reactions when you saw it happen?

JF: Some of the gross things I saw as a nurse were maggots in wounds, rotten “stuck” tampons, and wounds with gangrene. Although I do not enjoy disturbing smells, I enjoy the bloody/gutty side of nursing. I know that may sound terrible to some, but I love trauma nursing more than anything.

AA: How much politics and ass-kissing was there amongst all the nurses you worked with?

JF: As far as the politics of nursing, most don’t have politics per se. Mostly it was more like appeasement of the CDC or for “the good of public health” shenanigans. You always had to wear a mask during flu season and get injected constantly with everything that came down the pike. They do like to play games in that aspect. It was very difficult to refuse or decline anything, if not impossible.

AA: Do you have a favorite nurse that you enjoyed working a long side with?

JF: I did not really have favorites that I worked with, because I loved all of my staff. They were fun, intelligent, and made every day go by relatively peacefully. I will say that when I moved to another state, that was not the case. The hospital I went to work for down here in Tennessee was very underwhelming to say the least. Almost like going back in a Time Machine, they seemed clueless on most everything I had learned at the teaching hospital. They were under equipped, and highly undereducated.

AA: How did the working hours you got affect your mental and physical well-being?

JF: I really loved being a nurse, but I did not enjoy the long hours, excessive overtime, and lack of pay for such. It was nothing to work 12 to 14 hours a day with maybe five minutes to snack or use the restroom. Scheduling family time was nearly impossible. As an example, I would be scheduled to leave at 4 pm, and it was nothing to leave at 11 pm instead. Most of the time, instead of being paid for the overtime hours they forced you to work, they would ask you to shave off time elsewhere. When that failed, we would get into trouble for actually getting overtime hours that we couldn’t shave off. It was highly physically and mentally exhausting at times. A lot of grounding was needed to re-center myself after a day full of heartbreaking bad news, trauma, or even death. I am one of those nurses that always took those things personally, and it always affected me deeply.

AA: Given your current understanding of the medical field, have you ever considered returning to nursing? What specific changes or improvements would you prioritize for the well-being and care of the patients under your supervision?

JF: I absolutely would not return to nursing as it stands now. The focus is on a sick-sicker cycle, and not total patient wellness and care. As a patient advocate, I cannot in good conscious treat patients any longer in the medical industrial complex. The only way I would ever agree to work in that capacity again would be at a holistic care place. One where pharmaceuticals were not the central theme.

AA: I know have a podcast called "Deplorable Nation podcast." Could you please tell us about that show in detail? When did it get started? What has been your favorite episode that you have recorded or guest that you have had on? How has your podcast journey been since you started?

JF: Since retiring, I have been focusing more on my podcast Deplorable Nation. I absolutely love what I do. I get to meet new people and hear their personal stories. I deal with addiction, loss, grief, trauma, medical issues, mental health, and so much more. I spend a lot of time on exposing the lies we have been told in the traditional allopathic system and sharing more of a holistic approach to healing. I love being able to form that human connection with people, and giving them a place to speak, seek, and heal. When I first started out in 2019, it was more silly or political in nature. I decided that I did not really enjoy that, and it wasn’t helping anyone. When I changed direction with the show, I was able to reach more deeply into the missing part of society… a place for human connection and a place to feel heard. I love all of my guests, and I am honored and humbled that they choose to be vulnerable with me and share their life.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/9079c2_bf5042224dd34df7a4d1b4df1cf1a413/360p/mp4/file.mp4

A Celebration of Love with Greg

AA: Janet was the key influence in my decision to launch my own podcast. Her encouragement and motivation pushed me to begin, and without her, I wouldn't have reached my current position, interviewing so many incredible people.

JF: I have been able to make great friends in the podcast community and even did a mini medical series collaboration with another show (Paranoiradio) where we exposed the truth on cholesterol, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, and mast cell activation (aka allergies). The shows were jam packed with information, but short enough to digest quickly. Man do I know more now than I ever did in all my years of school and work! It’s incredible the number of things that are hidden from us.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/9079c2_8d3259018bbe41cda1973e9e54c5ec6f/360p/mp4/file.mp4

Deplorable Nation swapped cast with Paranoiradio to explore Crohn's Disease.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/9079c2_9457ce4e27c24b58bd909303752b657e/360p/mp4/file.mp4

Deplorable Nation discusses PCOS and infertility with Julia

AA: Why have natural healing remedies faced such strong criticism since the start of the pandemic?

JF: Holistic medicine is the route I choose now. There are so many hidden gems to heal us mind, body, and spirit. Of course, the powers that be will try to shut down any efforts or helpful aids that are not petroleum-based pharmaceuticals. The reason is simple…. Money! Our entire government system is set up as a revolving door between Pharma, CDC, FDA, lobbyists, and congress members. There is big money, stock dividends, and revolving jobs. The pharmacy industry funds our government and “healthcare” as a whole. If more people chose to step outside of allopathic medicine, multiple systems would collapse. Take this for example.

JF: During the height of the “pandemic”, natural things such as Vitamin D (sunlight), Vitamin C, and varying herbs and supplements like NAC were blocked as misinformation, or a ban was placed on certain items for ordering. Medications that were known to treat the exact same “virus” in the past that were cheap (Ivermectin and Hydroxychloroquine) were now deemed ineffective or dangerous. Why did this happen? It happened because the only way to get the Emergency Use Authorization passed for a new vaccine , Remdesivir, and monoclonal antibody treatments was to state there were no other treatment options available. The higher the cost, the better for the medical industrial complex and the wallets of Dr Fauci and other government employees who got a huge influx of wealth during that time. Vitamins, supplements, or old medications that may cost $1.00 for a 90 day supply doesn’t have the same financial gain as something that costs hundreds or thousands per dose. This is the sad truth on how our system has always run.

AA: Is it your belief that all the illnesses in the world are deliberately created?

JF: All of this coincides with manufactured illnesses and the labels that go along with them to keep you in the continual medical cycle. We get sick from toxins and poisons in our food, water, products and environment. Honestly you can think of your body like a beautiful garden. If you want to get healthy plants, you have to remove the weeds and pests that are causing damage. When we do not take time to nurture ourselves, our bodies react and tries to remove the toxins and poisons itself. We end up “unhealthy” because our body is overrun with useless waste. Fatigue, brain fog, upset stomach, achy joints or pain, rashes, swelling, fevers... our body is crying out for attention. There are so many healthy changes we can make to boost our energy and power up!

AA: In your opinion, what do you believe are the reasons behind the prevalent mental health crisis that has persisted over the past few years?

JF: The mental health issue in our world is the real “pandemic”. They are hitting us on all fronts, again through toxins and poisons in our food, water, air, and products. We are inundated with EMF radiation from our phones and smart devices. Sugar and soy/soy products are in everything. We are fooled into “health food” product isles at the store that are littered with toxins and pesticides. The pharmaceuticals that we ingest are designed to cause decreased organ function, reverse or halt hormone production, and cross the blood brain barrier; damaging our response system with brain function through synaptic connections. They deaden our emotional response not just through the effects in the brain, but also through the adrenal glands and slowed kidney function. Our mental health system is faulty as well. Counseling has changed and has become a venue for creating an atmosphere of “unhealthy” by focusing on agendas instead of individuals. We are no longer getting to the root cause of emotional trauma responses, but we are encouraging lash outs and bratty behavior in the form of “your feelings are valid, so tell em girl” mentality. We aren’t fixing anything. We are creating more of an issue. Would you be surprised to know that every instance of substance abuse (among other conditions) is causally related? Meaning that some type of trauma in the past, whether conscious or subconscious is the root cause of it.

AA: Tell me about the three people that have impacted your life positively or negatively.

JF: Three people that have impacted my life would have to be first and foremost, God. I am so grateful for being the person that he made me to be! I am humbled and honored that he loves me, and I love Him and his teachings so! He saved me and raised me up to become a better person. Secondly, my husband, Greg. Not only is he my soulmate, my best friend and my support system, but he really truly gets me and supports me in everything I do. He has showed me the true meaning of love, and he is an amazing leader of the family. And lastly, my daughter, Kirsten! She is such a beautiful soul. Although she has been through so many trials and traumas in her life, she amazes me every day at the woman she has become. She is strong. She is resilient. And she uses the pain that she has been through to serve others and to help them grow and break the chains that bind them.

AA: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

JF: As far as movies go, I honestly can say that I can watch one, but I don’t have a favorite. The type of movie or show that I watch depends on my mood. Sometimes they make me cry because I can feel the characters emotion, or I can resonate with something that they are feeling. It is good to have an emotional release.

AA: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

JF: When I watch TV shows or series, I like to watch documentaries or true crime for the most part. I’m the kind of person that likes to know what makes people tick. I think that’s why I enjoy podcasting so much. I like to be able to feel the emotion and relate to what circumstances may or may not have caused them to do something that they regret.

AA: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

JF: As far as reading, I don’t really read a whole lot of books. I guess the reason for that is because I do so much research that I feel unmotivated to sit down with a book. If I am diving deep into a topic, I like to focus solely on that. When I am finished, I may watch something lighthearted and comedic or spend time grounding myself.

JF: I am one of those people that has a hard time sitting still for too long if I’m not working on something!

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

JF: As far as podcasts go, what I listen to also depends on my mood and time constraints. At times I enjoy comedy, sometimes personal stories, other times mind blowing research. I don’t really have a favorite, because there are so many fantastic ones out there to suit your needs!

AA: What bands or artists do you love listening to? I would also love to know about your favorite concert experience!

JF: I love music! Music was such a big part of my life for many years. Instead of going on vacations, my husband and I would go to music festivals or concerts. I have seen so many great bands over the years. Anything from Metallica, to Mötley Crüe, Korn, Sebastian Bach, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, and so many more. I think my all-time favorite experience was seeing Down and experiencing a mosh pit for my first time ever. At first, I was terrified, and then it just became really fun and I got into it! So, I guess you could say I am a metalhead/80s hairband/Christian rock kind of girl. A few of my favorite Christian artists are Shawn McDonald and Jimmy Needham.

AA: What hobbies do you enjoy doing?

JF: Hobby wise, I enjoy crafting specialty spices, teas, and craft granola. I also love to make unique and creative candy for other people. I love spending time with my husband who is my best friend. We are still madly in love and quality dating him after all of these years! We love to hang out with the kids when we get the opportunity!

AA: What would you tell yourself if you could turn back the time and talk to your 18-year-old self?

JF: If I could go back in time and give one piece of advice to my younger self, I would say that you will be OK. Life will be hard at times but pay attention to the lessons in everything you encounter. Learn from your mistakes do better the next time. Use your discernment and live wisely.

AA: What would you say if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

JF: f I could say anything to the world, it would be to love one another. Treat each other with kindness. Do random acts of kindness for people, like holding the door open for a stranger or telling them to have a great day! Spend more time face-to-face with family or friends, and less time on your phone. Get out and enjoy the beauty the world has to offer. Appreciate every moment of life, and every breath that you take. Give thanks to the Lord. Serve him wisely. Humble yourself and be observe to others.

AA: Janet, your nursing experiences and personal history are inspiring, showcasing dedication and compassion in the field. Your story is a true testament to the resilience and empathy of a healthcare professional. Thank you for being a beacon of knowledge and compassion.

Janet Fox- Podcaster and Retired Nurse

Below are the links where you can find everything related to Janet:

https://deplorablejanet.podbean.com/

https://www.instagram.com/deplorablejanet/

https://x.com/KnowJanet

*** All photos by Janet Fox and video by Deplorable Nation and Paranoiradio less otherwise noted **

Behind the Music: Exploring the Journey of Guitarist Trey Hawkins from Set Adrift and Light The Fire

I recently had the chance to engage in a conversation with Trey Hawkins, the skilled guitarist of Sett//Adrift. During our discussion, we explored his musical path, the harmony within the band, and his personal hobbies.

AA: Please share your background with us. I'd love to learn about where you're from, your upbringing, and how your cultural heritage has influenced who you are today. Also, what significant life experiences have played a crucial role in shaping your identity?

TH: So was born in San Diego California, but my dad was military, so growing up I lived all over the country. Most of my time was spent off and on in Florida though; I know that having that semi-unique experience affected how I made friends, what things I prioritize in life, the perspective I have, etc. I’ve had a few experiences in life that have solidified my worldview and identity in faith, and that’s been a tremendously important aspect of who I am. I don’t even necessarily mean in a religious sense but just maintaining a view of myself and life that there *are* wonders in the world and beyond and I think that’s beautiful.

AA: I am genuinely fascinated by the story behind your musical journey. I would love to know what specific moment or experience ignited your passion for music and how you decided to pursue it. What were your challenges, and what steps did you take to turn your passion into a successful musical journey?

TH: When I was 13 I lived across the street from a guy that was a musician. He played in a band here in DFW called Backseat Driver, and they were in that kinda Good Charlotte era pop punk/alt/emo vein. I just remember hearing him talk about it, the occasional practice, and I think that’s really where I got bitten by the bug for music. I’m not even sure he knows how much of an impact he had on me, but it for sure changed the trajectory of my life. Fast forward a bit, life and school and parents got in the way…but I got my first guitar when I was a junior in high school and that kinda brought me back to the original idea of starting a band. I started my first band at 18 the summer before college and it was….bad. It was a steppingstone though and I for sure had no idea that I’d literally be making music for the rest of my life (so far). As far as obstacles, I’d say the biggest hurdle has been people. So many “friends” and people I met along the way either just let me down or actively worked against me (or more so just in their own self-interest) and that was a hard lesson to learn. I think the only thing I really did to turn this into something was to take it seriously, make decisions as if they have lasting effects, and choose my circle carefully!

AA: Is there a particular artist whose music and personal journey have profoundly influenced your decision to pursue your passion for music? Did their story inspire you to take the leap and form your band? Please share how their experiences and artistry have shaped your musical path.

TH: Oh gosh there are so many! Early on I’d say I had all the same guitar idols that most people have: David Gilmore, Andy Summers, Alex Lifeson, etc. I think the thing that I set myself apart a bit with though was I always knew I wanted to write songs, and that guitar was just a vehicle for that. So, the bands that I’ve been drawn to as inspirations aren’t always super guitar heavy. I’d say one of the most influential artists for me and particularly Set//Adrift is Being as an Ocean. I remember hearing them for the first time and just being in awe of the art they had created; and the lyrical value behind it…they’re incredible. It’s a little out of left field, but I’d say the artist that contributed the most to my overall outlook on music and having a band would be Thrice. The Alchemy Index legitimately changed my perspective on what I’d eventually call a “complete art piece.” That meaning, where every aspect and detail of the release serves the greater purpose of the art. If you’re not familiar I highly recommend diving into the details of that. The songs, the lyrics, the instrumentation and textures they used, song titles, artwork, marketing….it helped it transcend to more than just an album (or in this case 4 EPs). So, I for sure have always been chasing that level of detail in my work.

AA: I’m intrigued by your journey—could you share how you first became involved with Light The Fire and Set Adrift? What motivated you to join these projects, and what experiences or moments during your involvement have stood out to you the most?

TH: I moved to Texas in 2015 and had been in bands from 2008 to 2014 in Florida…so naturally I wanted to continue writing and playing and I looked at this as a fresh start. I had a friend that worked at Guitar Center with me when I first moved to Fort Worth, and he asked me to help get a new band off the ground. That band eventually became The Great Line, which was the precursor to Set//Adrift. It was really more a studio project as it was only two of us writing, and although we did get an EP recorded and released, it never really got off the ground. While I was waiting on that, Light the Fire happened to be needing a fill-in guitarist and so I hopped on with them purely because I liked the guys and it was a chance to be on stage again. I ended up really becoming close with all them and so they eventually asked me to stay on as a full-time member. I helped write the 2019 album “Compassion in Unlikely Places” and took an even greater role in the writing in the singles/EPs we’ve done since. I’ve had some of my favorite memories in music with the LTF guys and we really are more of a family than just a band these days.

Band | LIGHTHEFIRE

TH: We recently got to record our upcoming EP with Beau from Saosin and that was an experience I could never have dreamed of when I was 13 listening to that self-titled record. Set//Adrift really took shape out of songs I had been writing for The Great Line before we broke up, and in 2019 myself, my friend Taylor (from my old band in Florida), and one of his friends Andrew got together as the first legitimate incarnation of the band. We asked our other friend Cody (originally in the band Dispositions) to record vocals and those became the Narcissit//Bloom single. Eventually Cody needed to follow a different path professionally and another friend from Florida, Josh, joined on vocals. His addition really created the dynamic and creative direction we have now and it’s been awesome. As soon as we knew we were gonna play shows we added Jacob on other guitar and he’s….and absolute monster of a player. We’re so lucky to have such great musicians and even better dudes be a part of this now.

Band | SET//ADRIFT

AA: Could you share more about your other band, Light The Fire, for which you provide the guitar riffs? I'm curious about how the band formed and what inspired you to start it. Additionally, what's the story behind the name Light The Fire? What genre of music do you play, and what themes or messages do you explore in your songs?

TH: So, I touched on it a little in the last question, but I was the final addition to the band. The name and artistic direction predated me, by quite a few years. They were signed to Standby Records in 2015 and I joined in late 2017. Ltf’s founding member Andrew would have to speak to the early days, but since I joined Seth (vocalist) has been the main creative force lyrically. I’d call it metalcore I suppose? I try to add as much melodic hardcore as is reasonable, but I think at its core, Light the Fire is a metalcore band. Seth is a great lyricist and has a lot to pull from in personal experiences as well as social observations. Our newest material is probably the most vulnerable he’s written, and it’s been much more intrapersonal than our last album “Compassion in Unlikely Places”. I feel like that record was written much more from a place of activism. That’s still a part of who we are, like the song “Barriers” is very societally charged, but he flexed more of his emotional vulnerability on a lot of these new songs.

AA: Could you share your experiences as a musician, particularly as a guitar player? What specific challenges do you face on your journey, such as mastering techniques, managing stage anxiety, or navigating the business aspects of music? What rewards have you discovered, such as connecting with an audience, expressing yourself creatively, or collaborating with other musicians? How do these experiences, both challenging and rewarding, influence your development as an artist and shape your overall musical journey?

TH: You know I still don’t really think of myself as a guitar player. I know I am, but I feel like I’ve always been a songwriter first. In fact, most of the leaps I’ve taken over the years as a player has been to be able to play the things I’ve written. I usually write just above my current skill level, and I’ve always made sure to surround myself with musicians that are better that me so I rise to the occasion. Stage anxiety is a big thing, but if I’m honest my secret is simple; I take my glasses off when I’m performing. I can’t see specific people in the crowd, I can really only see to the edge of the stage, my guitar, and the guys on stage with me.

TH: So, it feels like I’m just playing with my friends and the crowd is there…but I’m not looking anyone in the eye unless I'm really close. So, it becomes much more manageable. I think the most important takeaway for me as a musician has been getting to create art with people I care about (both in my bands and beyond), as well as feel like I’ve been able to contribute to someone else’s experience in life; like so many of my favorite artists have done for me. Sometimes it's hard to remember the impact we have as artists because we have to worry about numbers and algorithms and streams and staying visible on platforms that want artists to pay to reach their audiences…but then we play a show, and I get to connect with someone, and it makes it all worth it.

AA: Could you elaborate on your recent EP, "A Monument to Absence,” which you released this year? I'm quite curious about the inspiration and story that influenced the EP. Can you explain what each song means to you personally and the emotions or experiences that contributed to their creation? Furthermore, I would love to learn about the behind-the-scenes work regarding the guitar sounds and riffs you used to enhance the overall sound of each track. What techniques or equipment did you utilize to create the distinct textures and atmospheres in the music?

TH: So like I said before, I started writing these songs back in 2017/2018, so in particular ‘Wake’ and ‘Rot’ are pretty old musically, ‘Absence’ and ‘Monument’ are actually the newest, and we finished writing monument a week before we hit the studio to record it. When Josh joined the band, he brought his own lyric writing expertise and style, but it meshed so well with mine it was incredible. We had multiple moments writing the vocals for these songs where things just *clicked* and its like we were in each other’s heads. He wrote the lyrics for ‘Wake’ about on of his good friends that took his own life. It’s been a crowd favorite and it’s been really good to see Josh get such catharsis out of recording and performing that one. ‘Rot’ we wrote the lyrics together and It’s essentially about moving on from broken relationships; letting the memories and old parts of you *rot* away. When I first wrote this song it was one of my favorites, but with Josh adding his flavor to it, it really took on a whole new life which has been incredible to see. ‘Absence’ is probably my favorite song on the EP personally.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7ORjEWqkCk

TH: I wrote it around the start of the pandemic (musically) and it was inspired by a really rough breakup/relationship that happened literally days before Texas shut down for covid. I wrote the lyrics a little later after I had processed a bunch, and they were inspired by the book/movie “The Little Prince”. It’s technically a kids book but it has SO many incredible lessons and perspectives about life, relationships, love, and loss. The rose in the single artwork was a nod to that. ‘Monument’ being the newest was probably also the most collaborative musically, but it felt so good with everyone bringing bits to the table. Although ‘absence’ my be my favorite overall, I think ‘monument’ may be my favorite lyrically. It’s about how as we move on from relationships and through life, we become monuments to our former selves that aren’t there anymore; both in our own perspectives and to those that we love/loved.

TH: In terms of production, by good friend Dave Alcan is the recording mastermind behind all the Set//Adrift music. His ear and just sense of how to make things better is impeccable. We used a Mesa Boogie Badlander 50w head for all the rhythm guitar tones, and we actually used my Neural Quad Cortex for the clean tones and a lot of the leads. I know he added some additional details with some of his amps in his studio later, but the bulk of the tones were that combination. Reverb and delay are probably the thing I’m the pickiest about, and for the ambient sections I used the Walrus Audio Slöer reverb, and the Chase Bliss Thermae analog delay. I can do almost anything with the QC, but those two are still on my board because they’re so unique. For the guitars I used my Suhr custom JM, and Suhr Classic T, and those are just unbeatable in terms of playability and the tones I can get out of them.

AA: Who is the guitarist you admire most who encouraged you to begin playing the instrument? What aspects of their playing style or musical talent do you find inspiring and drive you to seek a professional music career?

TH: When I started playing, my main inspiration was David Gilmour from Pink Floyd. His ability to add textures to his guitar work and do so much with so few notes…it’s hard not to be inspired by that. His guitar lines are memorable and have such a mastery of melody and phrasing, I could go on and on. Playing heavier music though I’d say I’m the most inspired by Aaron Marshall of Intervals, actually for very similar reasons as my affinity for David. Aaron’s legato lines and catchiness to his leads and song structures are still some of the best I’ve ever heard. Of course I’d be doing myself a disservice if I also didn’t mention the guitar work on any of the Misery Signals albums. I know they’ve had a few guitarists over the years, but their arrangements and guitar acrobatics for sure are a big part of how I think about guitar in the context of writing for both Set//Adrift and Light the Fire.

AA: Can you recall the details of your very first live performance? Describe the setting, the crowd’s energy, and the anticipation leading up to that moment. What were your thoughts and feelings as you stepped onto the stage, and how did it impact you both during the performance and afterward?

TH: Oh gosh, my first live performance ever was on a tiny stage on the side of a gas station outside…it was terrible. The crowd’s energy was pretty non-existent since it was mostly our parents begrudgingly sitting in lawn chairs in the middle of Floridian summer haha. I think the takeaway for me from that experience was “I have to get better at this.” I needed that embarrassing experience to give me the perspective of what I’d be willing to accept from myself. So, everything I’ve done since, I’ve attempted to make it as professional as I could in the situation.

AA: Can you share a funny or embarrassing moment from a live performance?

TH: Oh gosh. Light the fire played in either Flint or Detroit…I can’t remember. The band we were out with had a fill in drummer and he became friends with us, and that night it was his birthday and he and I got…*way* too drunk…before we played our set haha. So we’re waiting back stage to come out for our intro, and right before we go out on stage I leaned over to Seth (our singer) and said “hey…I don’t remember how the first song starts…” and then walked out on stage haha. As soon as the song started muscle memory took over and it was fine but in that moment he and I both panicked; it was hilarious in retrospect.

AA: What's your strategy for networking and forging connections in the vibrant world of the music industry?

TH: This is one aspect of the internet I have found very helpful. I’m naturally an introvert, and at shows I usually have pretty bad anxiety. So if you’ve ever come up to me at a show and I seem standoffish, I promise I’m not…I’m just struggling haha. Instagram and Tiktok have helped me connect with so many like-minded musicians and fans and its been almost effortless to do so. I talked with a friend once about how our internet persona can be different from who we are in real life, but I really do think its a good way to open that door to beginning to understand someone if you have the desire to.

AA: Could you tell me about any upcoming projects, tours, or collaborations you’re looking forward to? I'm eager to hear what you're most excited about and any details you can share about these initiatives!

TH: So coming up, Set//Adrift has our first single off of our second EP (sort of a part 2) coming out December 13th. I don’t know if this will be out before then, but it’s the start of the second phase for us as a band and this will be the last of the songs I had written before the rest of the guys joined. Light the Fire is currently in the studio for our next release as well, and will be putting the final single of our upcoming EP out November 22nd. Death Won’t Be The End Of Me was originally going to be a full record, but we go so excited and off-the-wall creatively that we decided to do a part 1 and part 2. So Nov. 22nd will be the release for part 1. 2025 will be a lot of fun for both bands, but I think Set//Adrift will be starting to get out on the road and out of Texas. At least, that’s my goal.

AA: What does success look like to you?

TH: I think for me, it’s being able to make music with my friends and have it available to as many people as we can; based on how much we put into it. We’re all right around 30, so I don’t think any of us want to be on the road 300 days out of the year, so if we got to tour a couple months out of the year, play with our friends, maybe make some of our heroes our peers, I’d consider this successful.

AA: How do you define happiness in your own life? I think for myself, I’d define happiness as synonymous with fulfillment.

TH: Having people, I love and care about around; me enriching their lives, and vice versa. Of course, being an artist/musician is a part of that, but that’s not *all* it is. Especially if it comes at the cost of the other personal part of my life. But to me, they’re parallel lines that can add to each other but should never take away from each other.

AA: What are some activities you enjoy doing in your free time?

TH: I’m a pretty big nerd, so I just love watching movies/shows, playing the occasional video game, magic the gathering, and then my wild card is I love bouldering/rock climbing! It’s like a mental puzzle where I get to climb on cool stuff haha.

AA: What hobbies or pastimes do you find particularly enjoyable when you’re not immersed in your music? Are there specific activities that allow you to unwind and express yourself differently?

TH: For the people that have known me for years, I’m sure this always comes as a little bit of a strange pastime, but my favorite thing to do and turn my brain off to is watch football. I *hated* football as a kid, but my stepdad was really into it and it ended up being a bonding thing with us. After his passing, it became a way for me to keep him alive in me. Now I have my own independent love of the sport, and how it connects me to others. Big Green Bay fan, but I do enjoy just watching a few games on a Sunday after I’ve eaten too much and don’t want to move.

AA: Share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and explain why.

TH: There are literally SO many, but I’ll try and limit it to 3 haha. The first is my high school biology teacher Mark, he was the first person to believe in me as a musician/guitar player and I 100% would not be who I am without his support and influence. Second would be my stepdad. He passed when I was 19 but he also believed in me when he didn’t have to, and was the best example of what being a good man is. Third is cliche, but it would have to be my mom. She practically raised me all by herself for most of my life, and I am who I am today because of her. All the good I see in myself I get from her.

AA: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

TH: Well, I’m a huge fantasy/Sci Fi guy. Star Wars and Lord of the Rings are lifestyles, so I usually put them above even my favorite movies. In terms of traditional cinema, Christopher Nolan is my favorite director, so Interstellar, Inception, The Prestige, etc…all incredible. Oblivion I think is my favorite standalone movie though; both the story, the message, the execution…how the filmed it, all of it. It’s perfect to me. I also really enjoy historical dramas, because of the gravity they naturally get from being things that actually happened. Movies like Munich, The Imitation Game, Black Hawk Down, October Sky, the list could go on and on. I’d say The Last Samurai, Big Fish, and No Country for Old Men should belong as honorable mentions as well. All three of those affected me profoundly in one way or another.

AA: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

TH: I really like anything with a good story and execution. My favorite series of all time is probably “The Newsroom” with Jeff Daniels. Aaron Sorkin is one of the best screenwriters of all time, and his marriage of real-world events, idealist, and drama/fiction in that show is truly a masterclass. I enjoy all the typical comfort shows as well; Ted Lasso, The Office, How I Met Your Mother, Parks and Rec, etc. Any kind of epic story spanning multiple seasons I’m here for; The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, Lost, I’m here for it all! Really and truly, I just love good storytelling in any medium.

AA: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

TH: My favorite author is Stephen King, and The Dark Tower series is a masterpiece. I love how all of his writing connects back to the dark tower series in some way, and he just does such a good job of world building and making characters both relatable and unreliable in all the ways the reader would want. If you don’t want to jump into the series, I’d recommend: Cell, The Institute, or Salem’s Lot. All are incredible stand a lone novels. I grew up reading Harry Potter and later when my vocabulary was up to snuff, the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, all classics and cannot recommend enough if fantasy is your thing. I want to read to escape, similarly to when I watch movies or shows…so the more fantastic the world to get lost in the better.

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

TH: I’m not a *huge* podcast guy to be honest. During the pandemic I did follow one called “Thank the Maker: A Star Wars Podcast” that was started by Ryan from Yellowcard, Adam from Story of the Year, and Nick from Bayside. It was really cool to feel connected to these guys talking about one of my favorite things, especially at a time when I felt so disconnected from the rest of the world. Cannot recommend highly enough if you’re into Star Wars at all. And with them being all band dudes, it was like chatting with my bandmates or someone at a show about the super fine details about Star Wars.

AA: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

TH: Favorite bands is so hard to nail down…I know it’s always asked but still haha. I think if I *had* to pick, my top ones would be: Being as an Ocean, Misery Signals, The 1975, Hot Mulligan, The Weeknd, and Chvrches. Some of it is for lyrical and emotional content, some is for inspiration, and some is just because I love the songs and the way they make me feel. My favorite concert I’ve ever been to was actually the 1975 on their “at their very best” tour when they played Dallas. Seeing the songs I loved delivered so masterfully, with the production they had…it was an incredible experience I’ll never forget. True artists through and through.

AA: What three standout qualities make you truly exceptional as a guitarist?

TH: Oh, I don’t think I’m “exceptional” at all haha. I think I have a good ear for tone and for chord voicing, but that’s where I feel my strengths are.

AA: Could you delve into your experiences with mental health and share how those experiences have influenced and shaped various aspects of your life? I'm particularly interested in specific moments or challenges you've faced, how you've navigated them, and the lessons you've learned.

TH: Mental health is such an important topic and I’m not sure I’ll give it the justice it deserves, but it's something I’ve struggled with from a pretty early age. Depression, and anxiety have played a huge part in my music, and I don’t know many of my peers and musicians I look up to that it hasn’t. I know that in my late teens/early 20s I messed up a lot of my relationships and friendships because of a lack of awareness, so once I got the knowledge, I’ve made sure to use it to make myself as a competent as I can be for those around me. Last thing I ever want to be is a burden or use it as a crutch…but at the same time I think its very important to help one another and give grace to those that are struggling. Mental health is a marathon, not a sprint and if I can help others the way some have helped me, I’ll feel okay about it.

AA: Imagine you can step back in time and live in any historical period. Which era would you choose, and what draws you to it? Dive into the allure of the past and let your imagination wander!

TH: What a great question! I think if I had to choose any period it’d have to be specifically the Meji era of Japan. Obviously, my experience would be different as a westerner, but to be a fly on the wall or to experience it as someone of Japanese descent I feel like would be so enriching. I think the experience and perspective would make the world feel simultaneously larger and smaller all at the same time. Give focus to the day to day but also make the world outside of my sphere seem infinite.

AA: If you were allowed to explore a completely different career path, what would it be, and what motivates you to choose? Consider the aspects of this new profession that intrigue you, such as the skills you’d like to develop, the impact you wish to have, or the personal fulfillment you seek. What experiences or passions drive you toward this alternate career, and how do you envision it aligning with your values and aspirations?

TH: In another life I would have been a lawyer. It’s actually the career path I intended going into college before I changed my major to music. So, if I had the ability to do anything else, I’d follow that original path. I always loved the challenge and puzzle of courtroom and contract law, and I really do believe in our legal system, even with its flaws. Maybe I’d be too idealistic to make any real money doing it, but I feel like in any multiverse I’d choose passion over money.

AA: How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals during times of uncertainty or change?

TH: Well, I’ve had this internal pull to do what I’m dong since I was 13, so there are times when it literally comes down to the idea that can’t *not* do this. Life is hard, change is often followed by pain, and the music industry is one of the most vulnerable and cruel places t be as an artist or even just as a person. I fall back on the faith in myself and my friends that are on this journey with me, and at the end of the day believing that what we’re doing matters. Even in some small way making a difference for someone, even if we never know it.

AA: If you had the opportunity to sit down with your 18-year-old self and share some wisdom, what advice would you offer? Are there particular experiences or lessons you wish you had known earlier that could have shaped your journey differently?

TH: I would say that everything will happen as it's supposed to, and don’t stress out so much about the future that you miss out on the experiences in the present. I’d also tell him to not be too afraid of losing people that you allow toxic friendships to ruin the good you have going on in your life. The good people that are meant to be in your life will find their way to you if you leave space for them.

AA: How do you stay inspired and motivated during creative block or burnout?

TH: This is probably the most difficult part if I’m honest. Burnout is REAL, especially since when I’m not playing with either band I’m working at a guitar shop. Although being around music all the time is awesome, sometimes the *last* thing I want to do when I get home is play more. To combat it I compartmentalize a bit, and I make sure to make time for friends and activities outside of music. You can’t force creativity or recover from burnout without time; so, a lot of it is having the mindset that being in that state is *okay* sometimes and that I’ll pass.

AA: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?

TH: Just that life is hard, and complex, and messy; and to give yourself and others grace for that. And we should define ourselves by how we love each other.

AA: We are grateful to Trey Hawkins from Set // Adrift and Light The Fire for graciously sharing his story and interests with us.

Trey Hawkins | Guitarist

If you want to know more about Trey Hawkins and the band he's in, just check out these links:

Trey Hawkins Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/treyfromthepath/

SET//ADRIFT Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/setadriftfbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabU1HJ7LmFqCcwrDlLYn27X973Etp4g3Mn6QFjH6yyXJATKl0uYieczFdM_aem_6d6rQCgx0LEPDhrNUQDonw

LighttheFire:

https://www.instagram.com/lightthefire_tx/

*** All photos by Trey Hawkins and video by Set//Adrift - unless otherwise noted **